PROTESTS ON WATER REPLACEMENT WELLS

HB 54 removes the requirement for protests when drilling replacement wells within 100 feet of an original well, directly affecting water right owners seeking replacements and neighboring water users. It allows owners to drill such wells without public protest if they meet specific conditions: using the same water source, same water amount, proving an emergency, and filing notice with the state engineer before drilling. Affected neighbors cannot block the well but may later sue for damages if harmed. The bill streamlines the process for well replacements during emergencies while maintaining legal recourse for damages. (Note: Bill is pre-filed and not yet active.)